Trees are an essential part of our environment, offering shade, beauty, and ecological value. However, when left unmanaged, they can pose serious risks to people, property, and public spaces. At EM Tree Surgery Tewkesbury, we regularly help homeowners and landowners in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire identify and address potentially hazardous trees before problems arise.
Knowing when a tree has become a liability is crucial. Here’s how to spot the warning signs—and how professional tree surgery can help make your tree safe again.
Recognising the Signs of a Dangerous Tree
Trees often deteriorate gradually, making it easy to miss the early signs of structural instability or decay. Ignoring these signs can result in falling branches, uprooting, or damage to nearby structures.
Common indicators of a hazardous tree include:
- Cracks or splits in the trunk or main limbs
- Dead or hanging branches within the crown
- Excessive leaning or instability after storms
- Visible root damage or soil heave around the base
- Fungal growths, particularly around the trunk or roots
- Sudden loss of foliage or sparse canopy in the growing season
If any of these signs are present, the tree should be inspected by a qualified tree surgeon as soon as possible.
How Tree Surgery Can Reduce Risk
Professional tree surgery goes beyond basic pruning. It involves expert techniques designed to enhance the safety, structure, and health of your trees without the need for full removal—unless absolutely necessary.
1. Crown Reduction and Thinning
Reducing the crown size or selectively thinning branches can significantly lessen the weight and wind resistance of a tree. This reduces the risk of limb failure and improves structural balance.
Benefits:
- Reduces likelihood of branches snapping in high winds
- Improves light penetration and air circulation
- Maintains the tree’s natural shape while enhancing safety
2. Deadwood Removal
Dead branches pose a high risk of falling unexpectedly, particularly during storms. Removing them is a key part of regular tree maintenance and ensures the safety of people and property beneath the canopy.
Why it’s important:
- Prevents injury from falling debris
- Limits the spread of disease and decay
- Makes the tree more structurally sound
3. Bracing and Cabling
For mature trees with weak branch unions or structural defects, cabling and bracing can offer additional support. These systems help hold limbs in place and prevent them from splitting under their own weight.
Effective for:
- Trees with included bark or heavy lateral limbs
- Preserving valuable heritage trees
- Reducing the need for major removal
4. Tree Removal When Necessary
In cases where a tree poses a significant threat and cannot be made safe through surgery, removal may be the safest option. This is especially true for trees that are diseased, dead, or structurally unsound.
Situations where removal is often needed:
- Root systems damaging foundations or utilities
- Irreversible fungal infection (e.g. honey fungus)
- Storm-damaged trees leaning dangerously towards buildings
At EM Tree Surgery Tewkesbury, we carry out all tree work in compliance with British Standards (BS3998) and with full public liability cover for peace of mind.
Protecting People, Property and Peace of Mind
Leaving a dangerous tree unmanaged can result in personal injury, structural damage, and even legal liability. If a tree on your land causes harm to others or their property, the responsibility—and the cost—may fall on you.
Tree surgery provides:
- A safer outdoor environment for family, visitors, and the public
- Protection for vehicles, fencing, walls, and nearby buildings
- Assurance that your trees are not at risk of causing legal or financial issues
Regular tree inspections and appropriate interventions are the most effective way to manage this risk.
Conclusion
A tree doesn’t need to fall to cause damage—branches, decay, and poor structure can all create hazards over time. If you’re unsure about the condition of a tree on your property, don’t leave it to chance. A professional assessment can identify issues early and recommend the right course of action to keep everyone safe.
If you’re based in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire and are concerned about a potentially dangerous tree, contact EM Tree Surgery Tewkesbury. Our experienced team is here to provide safe, reliable solutions to protect your home, garden, and the wider environment.
Call us on: 01684 215 889
Click here to find out more about EM Tree Surgery Tewkesbury
Click here to complete our contact form and see how we can help with your trees needs.
